In Montreal, it was relatively easy to vote early in the day on Monday, as voters headed to the polls in drips and murmurs.
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At least that’s what we were able to observe during visits to some polling stations in the metropolis.
“I have no echoes of what is happening on the ground. We don’t have an update on what’s going on. Rather, the constituencies are managed by the Election Commissioners,” confirmed Dany Lapointe, spokesman for Elections Quebec.
At 12:30 p.m., the overall participation rate in Quebec was only 29.20%.
“A few constituencies are still missing. In some, they didn’t have time to put the odds together, or they prefer to dwell on getting people to vote. The price displayed does not include all trips,” explained Mr. Lapointe.
In recent days, the organization has had difficulties recruiting staff for the election. As of Monday morning, 11 constituencies still had needs.
Photo QMI AGENCY, LAURENT CORBEIL
“One of the reasons is that people were engaged but had to pull out because they contracted COVID-19. We had to try to recruit staff all weekend until last night,” he admitted.
According to him, the situation should not cause any inconveniences for voters.
At the primary school of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, where a hot battle unfolds, in the riding school of Camille-Laurin, voters were scarce. However, many of those who made the effort to come shared the importance they place on the right to vote.
“Every night at dinner we watched TV. We didn’t miss anything! Usually it’s sport, but there it was the news,” said Liguel Leblanc in particular.
For his part, Félix originally wanted to vote for Marie-Eve Rancourt, the Quebec solidaire candidate, who withdrew her candidacy after being caught in a mailbox.
Despite the resignation of his favorite, he still went to the polling station. “It’s okay to be dissatisfied with the government, but if you don’t get involved, you’re just talking in a vacuum. It is important to have a voice in our democracy,” he said.
The waiting time was also rather short when riding Maurice-Richard.
Photo QMI AGENCY, LAURENT CORBEIL
“I’ve never been a huge fan of politics, but the pandemic has made me realize how important it is. Whether it’s politics, whether it’s international or what surrounds us here. I took it for granted,” admitted Philippe, who came to vote with his girlfriend Rebecca.
Linda, for her part, went to the polls regularly. “We are privileged to be able to do this. It’s a choice here compared to anywhere else. It’s a privilege and you have to do it if you want change.”
At the École de la Petite Bourgogne, several voters were able to meet Liberal Party leader Dominique Anglade, who is seeking re-election to the post of Saint-Henri-Sainte-Anne.
“For me there are two important things in all democratic societies. It is the structure of health and education. I tried to understand what the different chefs offer,” explains Francesco.
For his part, Samuel Lussier was concerned not only with the economy but also with education and health. “Democracy is part of the grassroots of society. It’s important to vote because if you’re not happy, it gives you a chance to assert your rights and your opinion,” he said.